Conditions such as the following should be sufficient reasons for the consideration of sling replacement.

• For strand-laid and single-part slings, ten (10) randomly distributed broken wires in one rope lay, or five (5) broken wires in one strand in one rope lay.

• For cable-laid and braided slings of less than 8 parts, twenty (20) randomly distributed broken wires in one lay or braid, or one (1) broken strand per sling.

• For braided slings of 8 parts or more, forty (40) randomly distributed broken wires in one (1) braid, or two (2) broken strands per sling.

• Severe localized abrasion or scraping.

• Kinking, crushing, bird caging, or any other damage resulting in distortion of the wire rope structure.

Evidence of heat damage; or if a wire rope sling having a fiber core is exposed to temperatures in excess of 200°F; or if a wire rope sling having a steel core is used at temperatures above 400°F or below minus 60°F.

• End attachments that are cracked, deformed, or worn.

• Hooks that have been opened more than 15% of the normal throat opening, measured at the narrowest point, or twisted more than 10° from the plane of the unbent hook.

• Corrosion of the rope or end attachments.

• Unlaying or opening up of a tucked splice.

Rated Capacity (Working Load Limit), For Alloy Steel Chain Sling in Pounds

Initial inspection. Prior to use, all new, altered, modified, or repaired slings shall be inspected by a designated person.

The inspection procedure for chain slings in regular service is divided into two general classifications based on the interval at which inspection should be performed. The intervals in turn are dependent upon the degree of exposure of the sling components to wear and deterioration. The two general classifications are herein designated as frequent and periodic, with respective intervals between inspections as defined below.

Frequent Inspection. Visual examinations by the user or other designated personnel with records not required.

• Normal service - monthly

• Severe service - daily to weekly

• Special or infrequent service - as recommended by a qualified person before and after each occurrence.

Periodic Inspection. Visual inspection by a designated person making a record of the inspection or of apparent conditions to provide the basis for a continuing evaluation.

• Normal service - yearly

• Severe service - monthly to quarterly

• Special or infrequent service - as recommended by a qualified person before the first such occurrence and as directed by the qualified person for any subsequent occurrences.

Slings shall be inspected for defects and damage at intervals as defined above.

Visually inspect chain and attachments for wear, nicks, cracks, breaks, gouges, stretch, bends, weld splatter, discoloration from excessive temperature, and throat opening of hooks. Chain links and attachments should hinge freely with adjacent links.

In addition, visual observations should be conducted during regular service for any damage or evidence of malfunction that appears between regular inspections. Any deficiencies found shall cause the sling to be set aside for periodic inspection.